What is the function of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS)?

The function of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is to provide comprehensive information on the properties of a chemical substance. This includes details such as the chemical's hazards, handling and storage guidelines, first-aid measures, fire-fighting measures, accidental release measures, exposure controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations. The SDS is a critical regulatory tool and is essential for ensuring the safety and health of employees who may come into contact with hazardous materials.

By offering clear and accessible information, the SDS allows healthcare professionals and other employees to understand the risks associated with chemicals they use and encounter, facilitating safer handling and practices in the workplace. This focus on safety and compliance helps in the prevention of workplace accidents and exposures to harmful substances.

Other answer choices do not accurately represent the primary purpose of an SDS. Summarizing patient feedback relates more to health care management and quality improvement rather than chemical safety. Dictating employee schedules pertains to workplace management and staffing, while allocating resources effectively is more aligned with operational logistics than with individual chemical safety and handling.